The lefthander finished 6-6 with a 4.13 ERA in 19 games, all starts, with the Astros last season.

"We have been looking for a second left-hander for our bullpen," general manager Bill Bavasi said. "We think Ron is a real good fit in that role. He's tough on lefthanders and righthanders and has the ability to work in a variety of roles."

Villone was the Mariners first-round selection in the 1992 draft and made his debut with the team in 1995, appearing in 19 games. He was traded to the Padres that same season, along with outfielder Marc Newfield, for right-handed pitcher Andy Benes.